Sri Lanka is set to face New Zealand in a two-match T20 series beginning Saturday in Dambulla, but heavy rain could play a major role in the encounter. Charith Asalanka’s side has been on an impressive run, winning 11 of their 14 bilateral series this year, including nine of the last 10 on home soil. Their success has largely been attributed to their strong spin attack, but the weather might necessitate changes in strategy.
“The rain will likely be a factor,” Asalanka mentioned in a press conference on Friday. “While spin has been our strength, we may need to consider adding another seamer if these conditions persist.”
Sri Lanka has experienced intense rainfall over recent weeks, leading to floods that caused school closures in Colombo. The rain also disrupted the recent ODI series against the West Indies, with frequent washouts in Pallekele. On Friday, relentless downpours canceled Sri Lanka’s training session and cast doubt on New Zealand’s evening practice as well, with the ground covered entirely.
Dambulla will host both T20 matches on Saturday and Sunday, followed by a three-match ODI series starting next Wednesday.
New Zealand arrives after a challenging series, having lost 2-0 in the Test series in Sri Lanka. However, they made a strong comeback recently by sweeping India 3-0 in a historic Test series, handing India their first home series loss in over a decade. With key players like Tom Blundell, Tom Latham, Rachin Ravindra, and Tim Southee returning home to prepare for the upcoming Test series against England, New Zealand will field a refreshed side led by Mitchell Santner.
“Given the packed schedule, some players felt it best to rest ahead of the England series,” Santner explained. “We’re excited for the opportunity to see some new faces perform in the white-ball format.”
Sri Lanka Squad: Charith Asalanka, Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Kamindu Mendis, Dinesh Chandimal, Avishka Fernando, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage, Jeffrey Vandersay, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Nuwan Thushara, Matheesha Pathirana, Binura Fernando, Asitha Fernando.
New Zealand Squad: Mitchell Santner, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Josh Clarkson, Jacob Duffy, Lockie Ferguson, Zak Foulkes, Dean Foxcroft, Mitch Hay, Henry Nicholls, Glenn Phillips, Tim Robinson, Nathan Smith, Ish Sodhi, Will Young.
Umpires: Ruchira Palliyaguruge and Ravindra Wimalasiri.
